Introduction
The rematch between Usman Nurmagomedov and Paul Hughes stands as one of the most anticipated fights in MMA for 2025. After a razor-thin decision in their first meeting, the PFL has built a stacked card around their rematch — promising drama, elite-level striking, wrestling, and cage control. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know: how to stream the event live, the complete fight card (2 card structure), fighter stats and records, match background, predictions, and frequently asked questions to help you stay informed.
Background & Build-Up
First Encounter: January 25, 2025
Their rivalry began earlier in 2025 at the PFL Champions Series 1 in Dubai, where Nurmagomedov edged out a majority decision over Hughes in a gritty, back-and-forth battle.
Hughes was vocal post-fight, criticizing the judges’ scorecards as “pretty ridiculous” and insisted he felt he won the fight. Nurmagomedov, meanwhile, accepted the praise and acknowledged how tough Hughes made it for him.
Rematch Announcement & Card Setup
After that close fight, the rematch was confirmed for October 3, 2025, in Dubai at the Coca-Cola Arena, headlining PFL Champions Series 3.
The rematch is not just for revenge — the PFL Lightweight World Title is on the line.
The PFL is also staging a double-header of world title fights, with Corey Anderson vs Dovlet Yagshimuradov as the light heavyweight co-main event.
The rematch card is structured as a 2-card setup: an early/preliminary card and the main card to build toward the Nurmagomedov vs Hughes headliner.
Streaming & Live Viewing Information
Platforms & Regions
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United States: The rematch will stream exclusively on ESPN Unlimited via the ESPN App.
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United Kingdom, Ireland, and other regions: The event is expected to be available via DAZN in over 200 countries.
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Early Card Start Time: The early bouts begin at 11:30 AM ET in the U.S. for ESPN Unlimited viewers.
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Local Start (Dubai time): The preliminary card in Dubai is scheduled for 19:30 local time (GST) and then transitions into the main card.
Make sure you have a valid subscription or regional access for the streaming service in your country ahead of time to avoid last-minute issues.
Full 2-Card Breakdown: Prelims + Main Card
Preliminary / Early Card
These fights kick off the night, setting momentum and building the atmosphere before the headliners.
Some of the confirmed early/prelim fights include:
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Pouya Rahmani vs Slim Trabelsi (Heavyweight)
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Zubaira Tukhugov vs Artem Lobov (Catchweight, 165 lb)
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Omar El Dafrawy vs Florim Zendeli (Welterweight)
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Mirafzal Akhtamov (or Asaël Adjoudj) vs Luann Sardinha
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Takeshi Izumi vs Vinicius Cenci
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Makkasharip Zaynukov vs John Mitchell
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Jarrah Al-Silawi vs Gregory Babene
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Caolan Loughran vs Lewis McGrillen (Bantamweight)
These preliminary bouts offer fans a chance to see rising prospects and surging talent, serving as a warm-up before the showcase.
Main Card
The main card is where things get serious. Confirmed main card fights include:
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Usman Nurmagomedov vs Paul Hughes – Lightweight World Title (Headliner)
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Corey Anderson vs Dovlet Yagshimuradov – Light Heavyweight World Title (Co-main)
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Archie Colgan vs Jay-Jay Wilson – Lightweight bout
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Lewis McGrillen vs Caolan Loughran – Bantamweight bout
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Magomed Magomedov vs Sergio Pettis – Bantamweight fight on main card
This main card is stacked with title stakes, name talent, and stylistic intrigue.
Fighter Profiles & Stats
Usman Nurmagomedov
Record & Background
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Professional record: 20-0 (1 NC) following the rematch win over Hughes
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In his first fight vs Hughes, he won via majority decision (after a point deduction)
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In the rematch, he secured a unanimous decision win (judges: 50-45, 49-46, 48-47) to capture the PFL Lightweight title.
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He remains undefeated in his professional career.
Strengths & Style
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Versatile striker with solid grappling — he can control the fight on the ground but can also mix in effective stand-up combinations.
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Shows discipline in cage control and positional dominance, often forcing opponents to fight where he wants.
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Has fought under pressure and prevailed in tight matches, demonstrating composure.
Paul “Big News” Hughes
Record & Background
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Before the rematch: approximately 14-2 (depending on records before fight)
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In his first fight vs Nurmagomedov: lost by majority decision, felt he had won the fight.
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To earn the rematch, he knocked out Bruno Miranda in just 42 seconds in a PFL bout earlier in 2025.
Strengths & Style
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Aggressive striker, often looking to end fights early. The 42-second KO shows his power potential.
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Courageous and durable — he pushed Nurmagomedov into deep waters in their first fight and gave him problems.
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Some criticism exists over consistency and grappling defense under pressure, which may be exploited by Nurmagomedov’s tactical game.
Rematch Analysis & Predictions
What to Watch
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Judging & Scorecards
The disparity in the 50-45 card in the rematch raised eyebrows among fans and pundits. Close fights often hinge on rounds 4 and 5, and scoring will be under heavy scrutiny. -
Grappling vs Striking Matchup
Nurmagomedov may lean into takedowns and ground control, while Hughes will try to keep it upright and unleash power shots. The balance between these phases may decide the fight. -
Cardio & Fight Pace
In a five-round title fight, maintaining high pace late is crucial. Hughes may try to explode early; Nurmagomedov may aim to take control mid-rounds. -
Adjustments from First Fight
Both fighters know each other’s tendencies now. Hughes may adjust to avoid grappling traps and Nurmagomedov may shore up weaknesses exposed earlier.
Prediction
Given Nurmagomedov’s undefeated status, versatile skillset, and championship composure, many favor him to win again — potentially by decision if Hughes survives the full distance. However, if Hughes lands heavy early, an upset knockout is possible. I lean toward a close unanimous or split decision win for Nurmagomedov again. Nurmagomedov vs Paul Hughes.
Aftermath & Reaction
In the aftermath of the rematch, Nurmagomedov solidified his legacy and captured the PFL lightweight title. Meanwhile, some fans cried foul over judging, citing the wide 50-45 card as controversial.
Hughes reportedly sustained an eye injury, further fueling discourse about fight damage and officiating.
Nurmagomedov, in victory, expressed pride in winning in front of his father and in front of the PFL audience. Hughes, in his remarks, acknowledged the heart of his opponent and vowed to come back stronger.
FAQs
Q1: When and where is Usman Nurmagomedov vs Paul Hughes 2 held?
It’s scheduled for October 3, 2025 at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, UAE as part of PFL Champions Series 3.
Q2: How can I watch the fight live/stream it?
In the U.S., it will air exclusively on ESPN Unlimited via the ESPN app. In the UK, Ireland, and many other regions, it’s expected on DAZN.
Q3: What’s the fight card or “2-card” format?
The event is split into a preliminary/early card with several undercard bouts, and the main card featuring title fights and marquee matchups. Key main card bouts include Nurmagomedov vs Hughes, Anderson vs Yagshimuradov, Archie Colgan vs Jay-Jay Wilson, and Magomedov vs Pettis. Nurmagomedov vs Paul Hughes.
Q4: What are the records and styles of the fighters?
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Nurmagomedov: Undefeated (20-0, 1 NC), versatile with solid grappling and striking.
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Hughes: Around 14-2 before the rematch, power striker with early finish capability but less consistent in wrestling phases.
Q5: Will the judging be controversial?
Possibly. The first fight and rematch both had tightly scored cards, and the wide 50-45 judge in the rematch drew criticism. Fans and analysts will certainly be dissecting each round.
Q6: Who is the favorite?
Nurmagomedov is generally viewed as the favorite, owing to his undefeated record, title experience, and tactical versatility. But Hughes presents danger, especially early in the fight.
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